Receiver configured to accept a removable anchor device for securing a fiber optic connector within the receiver

ABSTRACT

Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed to a Network system including: a connector comprising a housing comprising a groove running widthwise on a surface of the housing; and a push-pull tab comprising a complementary groove, wherein the push-pull tab is detachably connected to the housing; and a receiver device comprising one or more ports for receiving the connector, the one or more ports having an interchangeable anchor device including a first portion and a second portion; wherein the groove is configured to receive the first portion of the interchangeable anchor device when the connector is inserted into the receiving element, and wherein the complimentary groove is configured to receive the second portion of the interchangeable anchor device when the connector is inserted into the receiving element, the push-pull tab being configured to disengage the second portion of the interchangeable anchor device from the complementary groove when the push-pull tab is moved in a direction away from the connector, thereby disengaging the first portion of the interchangeable anchor device from the grove of the connector. Other aspects are described and claimed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED-APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/720,980, filed Sep. 29, 2017, titled “Narrow Width Adapters andConnectors with Modular Latching Arm” that claims the benefit ofpriority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/457,150 filed on Feb. 9,2017, entitled “Narrow Width Adapters and Connectors with ModularLatching Arm” and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/546,920 filed Aug.17, 2017, entitled “Narrow Width Adapters and Connectors with ModularLatching Arm,” each of which is incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to connectors having remoterelease, and more specifically to narrow width adapters and connectors,such as narrow pitch distance Lucent Connector (LC) duplex adapters andnarrow width multi-fiber connectors.

The prevalence of the Internet has led to unprecedented growth incommunication networks. Consumer demand for service and increasedcompetition has caused network providers to continuously find ways toimprove quality of service while reducing cost.

Certain solutions have included deployment of high-density interconnectpanels. High-density interconnect panels may be designed to consolidatethe increasing volume of interconnections necessary to support thefast-growing networks into a compacted form factor, thereby increasingquality of service and decreasing costs such as floor space and supportoverhead. However, the deployment of high-density interconnect panelshas not been fully realized.

In communication networks, such as data centers and switching networks,numerous interconnections between mating connectors may be compactedinto high-density panels. Panel and connector producers may optimize forsuch high densities by shrinking the connector size and/or the spacingbetween adjacent connectors on the panel. While both approaches may beeffective to increase the panel connector density, shrinking theconnector size and/or spacing may also increase the support cost anddiminish the quality of service.

In a high-density panel configuration, adjacent connectors and cableassemblies may obstruct access to individual release mechanisms. Suchphysical obstructions may impede the ability of an operator to minimizethe stresses applied to the cables and the connectors. For example,these stresses may be applied when a user reaches into a dense group ofconnectors and pushes aside surrounding optical fibers and connectors toaccess an individual connector release mechanism with his/her thumb andforefinger. Overstressing the cables and connectors may produce latentdefects, compromise the integrity and/or reliability of theterminations, and potentially cause serious disruptions to networkperformance.

While an operator may attempt to use a tool, such as a screwdriver, toreach into a dense group of connectors and activate a release mechanism,adjacent cables and connectors may obstruct the operator's line ofsight, making it difficult to guide the tool to the release mechanismwithout pushing aside the adjacent cables. Moreover, even when theoperator has a clear line of sight, guiding the tool to the releasemechanism may be a time-consuming process. Thus, using a tool may not beeffective at reducing support time and increasing the quality ofservice.

Small Form Factor Pluggable Transceivers (SFP) are used presently intelecommunication infrastructures within rack mounted copper-to-fibermedia converters, and are also known as Ethernet switches and/orpatching hubs. These infrastructure Ethernet and fiber optic connectionsare evolving quickly to increase connection density due to limited spacefor such equipment. Although fiber optic connectors have become smallerover the years, they have not been designed to be any smaller thannecessary to plug into commonly sized and readily available SFPs.However, as transceiver technologies develop, smaller SFPs will be usedto create higher density switches and/or patching hub equipment.Accordingly, there is a need for fiber optic connectors that will meetthe needs of future developments in smaller SFPs.

SUMMARY

In summary, one aspect provides a connector comprising: a front bodycomprising: a top and a bottom, a recess running lengthwise on the topof the front body, and a rear body detachably connected to the frontbody forming a housing, wherein a portion of the rear body fits insidethe front body when detachably connected; and a push-pull tab comprisinga front portion, a rear portion, and one or more side portions, whereinthe push-pull tab is detachably connected to the housing using the oneor more side portions, wherein the front portion sits in the recess.

Another aspect provides a receiver device comprising: one or more portsfor receiving a connector having a top and a bottom; the one or moreports comprising at least one cutout on the top; and the one or moreports comprising at least one guide rail on the bottom, wherein the atleast one cutout is configured to receive an interchangeable anchordevice.

A further aspect provides a network system comprising: a connectorcomprising a housing comprising a groove running widthwise on a surfaceof the housing; and a push-pull tab comprising a complementary groove,wherein the push-pull tab is detachably connected to the housing; and areceiver device comprising one or more ports for receiving theconnector, the one or more ports having an interchangeable anchor deviceincluding a first portion and a second portion; wherein the groove isconfigured to receive the first portion of the interchangeable anchordevice when the connector is inserted into the receiving element, andwherein the complimentary groove is configured to receive the secondportion of the interchangeable anchor device when the connector isinserted into the receiving element, the push-pull tab being configuredto disengage the second portion of the interchangeable anchor devicefrom the complementary groove when the push-pull tab is moved in adirection away from the connector, thereby disengaging the first portionof the interchangeable anchor device from the grove of the connector.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a prior art standard 6.25 mm pitch LCconnector SFP;

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a prior art standard 6.25 mm pitch LCadapter;

FIG. 1C is a top view of the prior art adapter of FIG. 1B;

FIG. 1D is a front view of the prior art adapter of FIG. 1B, showing the6.25 mm pitch;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a prior art LC duplex connector;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a prior art LC duplex connector with aremote release pull tab;

FIG. 2C is a top view of a prior art LC connector used in theembodiments shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B;

FIG. 2D is a side view of the prior art LC connector of FIG. 2C;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a future narrow pitch LC SFP forreceiving connectors disclosed herein according to aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a narrow pitch LCadapter according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4B is a top view of the narrow pitch LC adapter of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a front view of the narrow pitch LC adapter of FIG. 4A,showing a 4.8 mm pitch;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a narrow pitch LCduplex connector with remote release according to aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 6A is a top view of an LC connector used in the embodiment of FIG.5 according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6B is a side view of the LC connector of FIG. 6A according toaspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of narrow pitch LC duplex connector of FIG.5, with the release mechanism being removed according to aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a perspective disassembled view of the narrow pitch LC duplexconnector of FIG. 5 according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a prior art standard multiple-fiberpush-on/pull-off (MPO) SFP;

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a prior art standard MPO connector;

FIG. 10B is a top view of the prior art MPO connector of FIG. 10A,having a width of 12.4 mm;

FIG. 10C is a front view of the prior art MPO connector of FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a future narrow width multi-fiber SFPfor receiving connectors disclosed herein according to aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 12A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a narrow widthmulti-fiber connector with remote release according to aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 12B is a top view of the narrow width multi-fiber connector of FIG.12A, having a width of 9.6 mm according to aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 12C is a front view of the narrow width multi-fiber connector ofFIG. 12A according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a narrow width multi-fiber connectorinserted into a narrow width SFP having an SFP latch according toaspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13B is a perspective view of a narrow width multi-fiber connectorinserted into a narrow width adapter having an adapter latch accordingto aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a side view of a narrow width multi-fiber connector of FIG.13A having a recess engaged with an SFP latch in a normal pull tabposition according to aspects of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 15 is a side view of the narrow width multi-fiber connector of FIG.13A, being disengaged from the SFP latch by retracting the pull tabaccording to aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a narrow width multi-fiber connectorhaving an adapter latch according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16B is a perspective disassembled view of a narrow widthmulti-fiber connector having an adapter latch according to aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 17A is a front view of the narrow pitch adapter of FIG. 16A,showing a 3.80 mm pitch;

FIG. 17B is a side view of the narrow width connector of FIG. 16A;

FIG. 17C is a side view of a plug frame fitting inside a SFP accordingto aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17D is a perspective view of the narrow width connector of FIG. 16Awith the push/pull tab in a normal position in the SFP latching recessaccording to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17E is a perspective view of the narrow width connector of FIG. 16Awith the push/pull tab in a pulled back position with respect to the SFPlatching recess according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a small form factor transceiveraccording to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18B and FIG. 18C are respective side views of the transceiver ofFIG. 18A according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a SFP having one connector inserted;

FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B are side views of a SFP holding a connectoraccording to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the SFP having one connector insertedand with the push/pull tab retracted according to aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 22A and FIG. 22B are side views of the SFP latch in a liftedposition to unlatch the connector according to aspects of thedisclosure;

FIG. 23A is an exploded view of a connector according to aspects of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 23B is a perspective view of a connector according to aspects ofthe present disclosure;

FIG. 24A is an top dimensional view of a connector according to aspectsof the present disclosure;

FIG. 24B is an side dimensional view of a connector according to aspectsof the present disclosure;

FIG. 25A is a perspective view of a connector with the push-pull tab inthe forward position according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 25B is a perspective view of a connector with the push-pull tab inthe rearward position according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26A is a perspective view of a connector with the push-pull tabaccording to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26B is a zoomed perspective view of a connector with the push-pulltab according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26C is another perspective view of a connector with the push-pulltab to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27A is a perspective view of a connector with the push-pull tabaccording to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27B is a zoomed perspective view of a connector with the push-pulltab according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27C is another perspective view of a connector with the push-pulltab to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 28A illustrates an example CS connector according to someembodiments with two separate cross-sectional areas identified;

FIG. 28B is a detailed cross section view of a CS connector at the firstidentified cross-sectional area of the CS connector identified in FIG.28A;

FIG. 28C is a detailed cross sectional view of a CS connector at thesecond identified cross-sectional area of the CS connector identified inFIG. 28A;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of various connectors with the push-pulltabs of differing lengths according to aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 30A is a detailed dimensional front view of a duplexadapter/transceiver according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30B is a detailed dimensional cross sectional view of a duplexadapter/transceiver according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30C is another detailed dimensional cross sectional view of aduplex adapter/transceiver according to aspects of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 31A is a perspective view of a duplex adapter/transceiver withremovable anchors installed;

FIG. 31B is a perspective view of a removable anchor device;

FIG. 31C is another perspective view of a removable anchor device;

FIG. 32A is another a perspective view of a duplex adapter/transceiverwith removable anchors installed;

FIG. 32B is another perspective view of a removable anchor device;

FIG. 32C is another perspective view of a removable anchor device;

FIG. 33A is another a perspective view of a duplex adapter/transceiverwith removable anchors installed;

FIG. 33B is another perspective view of a removable anchor device;

FIG. 33C is another perspective view of a removable anchor device;

FIG. 34 is a detailed dimensional cross sectional view of a duplexadapter/transceiver with a removable anchor installed according toaspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 35A is another detailed dimensional cross sectional view of aduplex adapter/transceiver with a removable anchor installed accordingto aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 35B is a detailed dimensional cross sectional view of a duplexadapter/transceiver with a removable anchor installed according toaspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 36A is a perspective view of a CS connecter being inserted into anadapter/transceiver;

FIG. 36B is a perspective view of a CS connecter after being insertedinto an adapter/transceiver;

FIG. 37 is side cutaway view of a CS connector being inserted into anadapter/transceiver;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a CS connecter with a detailed view ofa horizontal groove;

FIG. 39A is a side cutaway view of a CS connector inserted into anadapter/receiver;

FIG. 39B is another side cutaway view of a CS connector inserted into anadapter/receiver;

FIG. 40 shows an illustrative top view of a CS connector inserted intoan adapter/receiver and a side cutaway view of a CS connector insertedinto an adapter/receiver;

FIG. 41 shows an illustrative top view of CS connector inserted into anadapter/receiver and a side cutaway view of a CS connector inserted intoan adapter/receiver;

FIG. 42 shows a dimensional detailed view of the CS connector;

FIG. 43 shows another dimensional detailed view of the CS connector;

FIG. 44A shows a fan-out and cassette method for distributing theconnection to a slower version of the system.

FIG. 44B shows an alternative for distributing the connection to aslower version of the system without requiring a fan-out and/or acassette method.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure is not limited to the particular systems, devices andmethods described, as these may vary. The terminology used in thedescription is for the purpose of describing the particular versions orembodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope.

As used in this document, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the”include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skillin the art. Nothing in this disclosure is to be construed as anadmission that the embodiments described in this disclosure are notentitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention. Asused in this document, the term “comprising” means “including, but notlimited to.”

The following terms shall have, for the purposes of this application,the respective meanings set forth below.

A connector, as used herein, refers to a device and/or component thereofthat connects a first module or cable to a second module or cable. Theconnector may be configured for fiber optic transmission or electricalsignal transmission. The connector may be any suitable type now known orlater developed, such as, for example, a ferrule connector (FC), a fiberdistributed data interface (FDDI) connector, an LC connector, amechanical transfer (MT) connector, a square connector (SC) connector,an SC duplex connector, or a straight tip (ST) connector. The connectormay generally be defined by a connector housing body. In someembodiments, the housing body may incorporate any or all of thecomponents described herein.

A “fiber optic cable” or an “optical cable” refers to a cable containingone or more optical fibers for conducting optical signals in beams oflight. The optical fibers can be constructed from any suitabletransparent material, including glass, fiberglass, and plastic. Thecable can include a jacket or sheathing material surrounding the opticalfibers. In addition, the cable can be connected to a connector on oneend or on both ends of the cable.

Various embodiments described herein generally provide a remote releasemechanism such that a user can remove cable assembly connectors that areclosely spaced together on a high-density panel without damagingsurrounding connectors, accidentally disconnecting surroundingconnectors, disrupting transmissions through surrounding connectors,and/or the like. Various embodiments also provide narrow pitch LC duplexconnectors and narrow width multi-fiber connectors, for use, forexample, with future narrow pitch LC SFPs and future narrow width SFPs.The remote release mechanisms allow use of the narrow pitch LC duplexconnectors and narrow width multi-fiber connectors in dense arrays ofnarrow pitch LC SFPs and narrow width multi-fiber SFPs.

FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of a prior art standard 6.25 mm pitchLC connector SFP 100. The SFP 100 is configured to receive a duplexconnector and provides two receptacles 102, each for receiving arespective LC connector. The pitch 104 is defined as the axis-to-axisdistance between the central longitudinal axes of each of the tworeceptacles 102. FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of a prior artstandard 6.25 mm pitch LC adapter 106. The adapter 106 is alsoconfigured to receive a duplex connector, and provides two receptacles108, each for receiving a respective LC connector. FIG. 1C is a top viewof the adapter 106 of FIG. 1B. The pitch of the adapter 106 is definedsimilarly to that of the SFP 100, as the axis-to-axis distance betweenthe central longitudinal axes of each of the two receptacles 108, asillustrated in FIG. 1D, which shows a front view of the adapter 106.

FIG. 2A shows a prior art LC duplex connector 200 that may be used withthe conventional SFP 100 and the conventional adapter 106. The LC duplexconnector 200 includes two conventional LC connectors 202. FIG. 2B showsanother prior art LC duplex connector 204 having a remote release pulltab 206, and including two conventional LC connectors 208. As shown, theremote release pull tab includes two prongs 210, each configured tocouple to the extending member 212 of a respective LC connector 208.FIGS. 2C and 2D show top and side views, respectively, of theconventional LC connector 208, having a width of 5.6 mm, and furthershowing the extending member 212.

Various embodiments disclosed herein are configured for use with afuture SFP, such as the narrow pitch LC SFP 300 shown in FIG. 3, havinga pitch less than that of conventional 6.25 mm and 5.25 mm pitches.Various embodiments utilize LC type fiber optic connectors in duplexarrangements (having transmitting and receiving fibers) but with aconnector axis-to-axis distance that is less than the conventional 6.25mm and 5.25 mm pitches, as described further below.

According to another aspect, embodiments of narrow pitch duplex LCadapters are disclosed. FIGS. 4A to 4C show one embodiment of a narrowpitch adapter 400. The narrow pitch adapter 400 has receptacles 402 onopposite ends thereof, configured for mating two narrow pitch LC duplexconnectors according to aspects disclosed herein. FIG. 4B shows a topview of the adapter 400. FIG. 4C shows a front view, furtherillustrating that the adapter 400 has a pitch of 4.8 mm. The adapter 400is configured to receive a duplex LC connector, with a pitch of theadapter corresponding to the axis-to-axis distance between the LCconnectors of the LC duplex connector. Although the adapter 400 has apitch of 4.8 mm, various embodiments of narrow pitch adapters disclosedherein may have a different pitch that is less than that of the pitch ofconventional adapters, for example less than 6.25 mm and less than about5.25 mm. In some embodiments, the pitch may be about 4.8 mm or less.

In addition to the need for narrow connectors, there is a need forremote unlatching of the narrow connectors used in dense narrow SFParrays. This is because finger access to connectors is nearly impossiblewithout disruption to the service of adjacent optical fibers. Althoughthere are current designs of remotely unlatching fiber optic connectors,as shown for example in FIG. 2B, they have proven to be difficult tofunction as desired when plugged into the die cast construction that istypical of all SFP's. The die cast SFP is not one that is ever free ofsharp edges and internal flashing (burrs) that can interfere with thenormal flexing motion of the plastic latches of the fiber opticconnectors. The interference between metal edges and burrs may preventthe fiber optic connector's plastic latch from either becoming fullyengaged or easily disengaged, especially with latches that are remotelytriggered by pull tabs that project a distance behind the connector soas to keep fingers from disturbing adjacent optical fibers.

To make the latching/unlatching of the connectors from the SFP morereliable, various embodiments disclosed herein add a spring force to theremote latching component (pull tab), for example as shown and describedin relation to FIGS. 5, 7, 8 and 12 below, to ensure that the connectorlatches are allowed to return to the undisplaced position and therebybecome fully engaged inside the SFP's recess.

FIG. 5 shows one embodiment of a narrow pitch connector 500 according toaspects disclosed herein. The narrow pitch connector 500 is a duplex LCconnector including two LC connectors 502. Each of the LC connectors 502includes a respective ferrule 503 and a respective extending member orlatching arm 504. The connector 500 has a pitch of 4.8 mm, defined asthe axis-to-axis distance between the central axes of the LC connectors502. In other embodiments, the connector pitch may be less than that ofthe pitch of conventional connectors, for example less than 6.25 mm andless than about 5.25 mm. In some embodiments, the pitch may be about 4.8mm or less.

The connector 500 further includes a housing 506 having a bottom housing508 and a top housing 510. The bottom housing 508 includes side walls512. In various embodiments, the housing 506 of the connector 500 may bea switchable housing. The side walls 512 may be configured to open so asto facilitate opening of the housing 506, for example, to changepolarity of the connector 500. The side walls 512 may be raised towardsthe rear of the connector 500, as shown in FIG. 5. One advantage ofraising the side walls 512 towards the rear of the connector 500 iseasier access. In other embodiments, the side walls 512 may be raised atanother location.

The connector 500 further includes a pull tab 514 having a distal end516 and a proximal end 518. The pull tab 514 further includes a spring520 configured to provide a force such that the connector latching arms504 return to the undisplaced position and thereby become fully engagedinside the SFP's recess. The distal end 516 of the pull tab 514 may bepulled to remotely release the connector 500 from an SFP or adapter. Theproximal end 518 of the pull tab 514 is uniquely shaped so as to engagewith the unique profile of the latching arms 504 of the narrow pitch LCconnector 500. The proximal end 518 engages both latching arms 504 ofthe duplex LC connector 500. That is, the proximal end 518 includes asingle prong configured to engage the latching arms of both connectors502. At the proximal end 518 of the pull tab 514 there are outwardlypointing pins 522 configured to rest directly above and slide along thesemi-circular surface of latching arms 504 of the duplex LC connectors502. The horizontal and rearward path direction of the pins 522 causesthe semi-circular profile of the connector latching arms 504 to flexdownward. Because the pins 522 are not contained inside ramped groovesof the connector latching arms 504, the pull tab 514 can also be pusheddown at a location directly behind the LC connectors 502 rather thanpulling the tab in a rearward motion from a remote distance behind theconnectors, such as from the distal end 516. The action of pushing downthe connectors' integral levers or latching arms 504 unlatches theconnector 500. In some cases, the horizontal motion of the pull tab 514may not be desirable. Thus, the connector latching arms 504 may bepushed down without resulting in a horizontal motion of the pull tab514.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show top and side views, respectively, of the LCconnector 502 of the narrow pitch connector 500. FIG. 6A further showsthat the LC connector 502 has a width of 4.6 mm. FIG. 6B shows thesemi-circular profile of the latching arm 504.

FIG. 7 shows a partially disassembled view of the narrow pitch connector500 of FIG. 5. The top housing 510 is separated from the bottom housing508. The pull tab 514 is coupled to the top housing 510 and configuredto slide longitudinally along the length of the connector. The tophousing 510 also includes a restraint 524 configured to receive the pulltab 514.

FIG. 8 shows a further disassembled view of the narrow pitch connector500. Specifically, the pull tab 514 is shown to be separated from thetop housing 510, and the spring 520 is removed from the pull tab. Thepull tab 514 includes a longitudinal recess 526 configured to receivethe spring 520, and at least one restraint 528 configured to retain thespring. The top housing 510 also includes a recess 530 configured toaccommodate at least a portion of the pull tab 514, such as the spring520 and the proximal end 518. In various embodiments, the pull tab maybe removably coupled to the connector via the top housing.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a prior art standard MPO SFP 900. TheSFP 900 is configured to receive a standard MPO connector and provides areceptacle 902 for receiving an MPO connector having a conventionalwidth, as shown for example in FIGS. 10A to 10C.

FIG. 10A shows a perspective view of a conventional MPO connector 1000.As shown in FIG. 10B, the conventional MPO connector 1000 has a width of12.4 mm. FIG. 10C shows a front view of the MPO connector 1000.

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a future narrow width multi-fiber SFP1100 according to aspects of the present disclosure. Various embodimentsdisclosed herein are configured for use with the narrow widthmulti-fiber SFP 1100, having a width less than that of conventional MPOconnectors, that is less than about 12.4 mm. The narrow widthmulti-fiber SFP has a receptacle 1102 configured to receive a narrowwidth multi-fiber connector, such as a narrow width connector having anMT ferrule.

FIG. 12A shows one embodiment of a narrow width connector 1200 accordingto aspects disclosed herein. The narrow width connector 1200 is amulti-fiber connector including a multi-fiber MT/MPO ferrule 1202. Theconnector 1200 includes two extending members or latching arms 1204. Inother embodiments, the connector may include at least one latching arm.The connector 1200 has a width of 9.6 mm, as shown in the top view ofthe connector 1200 in FIG. 12B. In other embodiments, the connectorwidth may be less than that of the width of conventional multi-fiberconnectors, for example less than the 12.4 mm of the conventional MPOconnector shown in FOG. 10B. In some embodiments, the width may be about9.6 mm or less.

The connector 1200 further includes a housing 1206 having a bottomhousing 1208 and a top housing 1210. The bottom housing 1208 includesside walls 1212. In various embodiments, the housing 1206 of theconnector 1200 may be a switchable housing. The side walls 1212 may beconfigured to open so as to facilitate opening of the housing 1206, forexample, to change polarity of the connector 1200. The side walls 1212may be raised towards the rear of the connector 1200. One advantage ofraising the side walls 1212 towards the rear of the connector 1200 iseasier access. The side walls 1212 may also be raised at anotherlocation.

The connector 1200 further includes a pull tab 1214 having a distal end1216 and a proximal end 1218. The pull tab 1214 further includes aspring 1220 configured to provide a force such that the connectorlatching arms 1204 return to the undisplaced position and thereby becomefully engaged inside the SFP's recess. The distal end 1216 of the pulltab 1214 may be pulled to remotely release the connector 1200 from anSFP or adapter. The proximal end 1218 of the pull tab 1214 is uniquelyshaped so as to engage with the unique profile of the latching arms 1204of the narrow width multi-fiber connector 1200. The proximal end 1218engages both latching arms 1204 of the multi-fiber connector 1200. Thatis, the proximal end 1218 includes a single prong configured to engagethe latching arms 1204. At the proximal end 1218 of the pull tab 1214there are outwardly pointing pins 1222 configured to rest directly aboveand slide along the semi-circular surface of latching arms 1204. Thehorizontal and rearward path direction of the pins 1222 causes thesemi-circular profile of the connector latching arms 1204 to flexdownward. Because the pins 1222 are not contained inside ramped groovesof the connector latching arms 1204, the pull tab 1214 can also bepushed down at a location directly behind the latching arms 1204 ratherthan pulling the tab in a rearward motion from a remote distance behindthe connector, such as from the distal end 1216. The action of pushingdown the connector's integral levers or latching arms 1204 unlatches theconnector 1200. In some cases, the horizontal motion of the pull tab1214 may not be desirable. Thus, the connector latching arms 1204 may bepushed down without resulting in a horizontal motion of the pull tab1214.

FIGS. 12B and 12C show top and front views, respectively, of the narrowwidth multi-fiber connector 1200. FIG. 12B further shows that theconnector 1200 has a width of 9.6 mm.

In various embodiments described above, the narrow width connectors havelatching arms configured to engage with a fixed or immovable recesswithin a narrow width SFP or a narrow width adapter. In theseembodiments, the pull tab of the connector displaces the flexiblelatching arm of the connector so as to disengage the latching arm fromthe recess of the SFP or the adapter. For example, the latching armsbend down as the pull tab is pulled back, so as to disengage theconnector from the SFP or the adapter.

In other embodiments, as further described for example in relation withFIGS. 13A, 13B, 14, and 15 below, the remote latch release pull tab maybe configured to couple with a latch or a hook within the adapter or theSFP. In these embodiments, the flexible latching arm of the connector ismoved into the main cavity of the SFP or the adapter, and the latch ofthe SFP or the adapter engages a recess of the connector when the pulltab is in a normal location that is pushed forward by a spring. The pulltab may be configured to have a ramp area such that when the pull tab ispulled back, the latch of the SFP or the adapter is lifted by theretracted pull tab, thereby disengaging the latch of the SFP or theadapter from the connector.

FIG. 13A shows a narrow pitch multi-fiber connector 1300 inserted into anarrow pitch SFP 1302 such that a recess of the connector engages an SFPlatch. FIG. 13B shows the narrow pitch connector 1300 inserted into anarrow pitch adapter 1304 such that a recess of the connector engages alatch of the adapter.

FIG. 14 shows a side view of the narrow width connector 1300 of FIG. 13Acoupled to the narrow width SFP 1302. Details of the coupling are shownwithin the circle 1400. Specifically, the SFP 1302 includes an SFP latch1402. The connector 1300 includes a recess 1404. For example, theconnector housing may comprise a recess 1404. The pull tab 1406 may bespring-loaded as described in relation to various embodiments. Thisallows the pull tab 1406 to return to a position that will allow the SFPlatch 1402 to engage with the connector recess 1404. When the pull tab1406 is in the normal pull tab location, that is pushed forward by aspring, as shown in FIG. 14, the SFP latch 1402 is engaged with theconnector recess 1404.

FIG. 15 shows a side view of the narrow width connector 1300 of FIG. 13Aas it is disengaged from the narrow width SFP 1302. Details of thedecoupling are shown within the circle 1500. The pull tab 1406 includesa taper or a ramp area 1502. As the pull tab 1406 is pulled back in thedirection of the arrow 1504 as shown, the SFP latch 1402 is lifted bythe ramp area 1502 of the retracted pull tab, thereby disengaging theSFP latch 1402 from the connector as illustrated within the circle 1500.The same effect described herein in conjunction with FIG. 15 also occursin other embodiments of connectors coupled to a narrow width adapter asshown, for example, in FIG. 13A.

Although FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate coupling of the connector to anarrow width SFP, in other embodiments the connector may be coupled to anarrow width adapter having an adapter latch, similar to that of the SFPlatch. Further, although the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13A, 13B, 14,and 15 include a narrow width multi-fiber connector, other embodimentsmay include narrow pitch LC connectors.

FIGS. 16A-22 are various views and details that show a narrow pitchmulti-fiber connector, a SFP and the latching mechanisms associatedtherewith according to various aspects of the invention.

As discussed herein, various types of connectors exist with variousmethods of implementation. Referring now to FIG. 23A, an embodiment of aCS connector is shown exploded for detail. It should be noted that thisvisual example is for explanatory purposes, and that various alternativeexamples may exist, some of which are discussed herein. In someembodiments, a CS connector may be a miniature single-position pluggenerally characterized by dual cylindrical, spring-loaded buttingferrule(s) of approximately 1.25 mm in diameter, and a push-pullcoupling mechanism. In some embodiments, the optical alignment mechanismof the connectors is of a rigid hole or a resilient sleeve style.

In some embodiments, the CS connector may comprise a front body (i.e.,plug frame) 2301, which houses the ferrule(s) and ferrules flange(s)2302. A rear body (i.e., back post) 2304 may connect to the rear of thefront body 2301 and contain the ferrule-flange(s) 2302. Theferrule-flange(s) 2302 may be held in place using one or more springs2303. The rear body 2304, as shown, may include a crimp ring 2305attached to the rear of the rear body. In some embodiments, a cable boot2306 may surround the crimp ring 2305. In some embodiments, and asshown, a dust cap 2307 may be placed over the front body 2301 in orderto protect the ferrules housed in the front body from damage and/ordebris.

In additional embodiments, a push-pull tab 2310 may attach to the CSconnector, as discussed in more detail herein. The push-pull tab 2310may have a side portion 2312 and a center protrusion (i.e., 2313), whichserve various functions discussed further herein. The push-pull tab 2310may utilize a tab spring 2308 to apply a constant directional force onthe push-pull tab to allow for various benefits which are discussedherein. Referring briefly to FIG. 23B, one embodiment of an assembled CSconnector with a push-pull tab is shown. In some embodiments, and asshown, the push-pull tab 2310 has a front portion 2314 which resides ina recess 2317 within the front body 2301. Thus, when the push-pull tab2310 traverses the connector, as discussed in detail herein, the frontportion 2314 moves independently of the front body 2301.

In one or more embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 24A, a CS connector mayhave an overall dimensional width of 7.95 millimeters. Additionally, infurther embodiments, the CS connector may have a pitch of 3.8 mm. Asdiscussed herein, the pitch is defined as the axis-to-axis distancebetween the central axes of the CS connectors 2450. Moreover, as shownin FIG. 24B, an embodiment may have an overall dimensional height of10.46 mm when the push-pull tab 2410 is attached to the front body 2401and the rear body 2404.

As disclosed herein, a connector (e.g., a CS connector) may have apush-pull tab to allow for easy insertion and extraction from anadapter. Referring now to FIGS. 25A and 25B, in some embodiments, thepush-pull tab 2510 may slide forward and rearward in a lengthwise mannerin relation to the connector as indicated by the dashed double-sidedarrow 2511. FIG. 25A shows an embodiment in which the side portion 2512of the push-pull tab 2510 contacts the rear body 2504. This contactbetween the side portion 2512 and the rear body 2504 stops the forwardmovement of the push-pull tab 2510.

In a further embodiment, the push-pull tab 2510 may be moved away fromthe rear body by a distance 2513 of about 1 mm to about 3 mm. Thepush-pull tab 2510 may have a center protrusion (such as 2314 in FIG.23A) which makes contact with the rear body 2504. This contact betweenthe center protrusion 2514 and the rear body 2504 may stop the rearwardmovement of the push-pull tab 2510.

Referring to FIGS. 26A-C, a CS connector according to some embodimentsis shown. As discussed herein, the push-pull tab has a front portion2614. In some embodiments, the front portion 2614 may comprise a tip2630. The tip 2630 may comprise a slit or groove (not shown) which mayslide over a portion of the front body 2601 in order to securely fastenthe front portion 2614 to the front body 2601. The slit or groove may,in some embodiments, be large enough to accommodate the movement of thepush-pull tab as discussed herein. Stated differently, when thepush-pull tab is pulled away from the front body (see FIG. 25B andcorresponding description) the push-pull tab may slide along the frontbody (i.e., FIG. 26C), thus the slit or groove must be large enough toallow for the movement of the push-pull tab while also ensuring a secureattachment in the non-retracted state (i.e., FIG. 26B).

As shown in FIG. 27A, and discussed herein, an embodiment may comprise aspring 2708 (i.e., FIG. 23A, 2308). The spring 2708 applies a biasingforce to the push-pull tab 2710 in the forward direction such that thegroove of the front body 2701 and the groove of the push-pull tab 2710align as discussed herein, and shown in FIG. 42. As shown in FIG. 27A,the hidden lines show the spring 2708 within the push-pull tab 2710. Inadditional embodiments, the push-pull tab 2710 may comprise a wedgeportion 2731. The wedge portion 2731 is configured such that it can snapinto the front body 2701 and slide/traverse the recess (see FIG. 23A at2317) when the push-pull tab is moved along the housing (i.e., frontbody and rear body).

Referring now to FIGS. 28A/B/C, a CS connector is shown includingcross-sections of various embodiments. FIG. 28A illustrates an exampleCS connector according to some embodiments with two separatecross-sectional areas identified. The first cross-sectional area (i.e.,X-X) is further detailed in FIG. 28B. FIG. 28B shows how the wedgeportion 2831 snaps into, or connects, with the front body 2801. Itshould be understood, that this material strength of the wedge portion2831 ensures a secure connection to the front body 2801 while alsoallowing for the push-pull tab 2810 to move along the length of thefront body 2801 as discussed in further detail herein. In additional tothe wedge portion 2831, some embodiments may also have a furthersecuring connection device comprising one or more clips 2832 which areformed as part of the push-pull tab. In some embodiments, and as shown,the one or more clips 2832 connect to and snap into the front body 2801and positioned adjacent to the rear body 2804 which is inserted into thefront body. It should be understood that these are non-limitingexamples, and that various connection means may be used to secure thepush-pull tab 2810 to the housing. Specifically, the wedge portion 2831and the one or more clips 2832 may be located at various other locationson the push-pull tab 2810, as well as different location on the frontbody 2801 and the rear body 2804.

The connectors (e.g., CS connectors) disclosed herein may be insertedinto an adapter (e.g., a fiber optic port), such as for example in afiber array or server. A non-limiting illustrative example of a typicaladapter is shown in FIG. 30A. FIG. 30A illustrates a dual adapter foraccepting two connectors (e.g., a dual ferrule CS connector). It shouldbe understood, that the various dimensions provided herein are only forillustrative purposes, and that various other dimensions may be possiblein various implementations. FIGS. 30B and 30C show specificcross-sectional cuts of the adapter shown in FIG. 30A. The variousdimensions of FIGS. 30A, 30B, and 30C are listed below in Table 1. Asshown in FIGS. 31, 32, and 33, and discussed herein, thereceiver/transceiver may allow for the insertion of an anchor device.

TABLE 1 Dimensions (mm) Reference Minimum Maximum F1 6.5 6.7 F2 6.5 6.7G1 3.8 G2 3.8 GA1 1.90 GA2 1.90 H1^(a,b) 2.87 2.97 H2^(a,b) 2.87 2.97 I13.7 3.8 I2 3.7 3.8 J1 5.75 5.85 J2 5.75 5.85 K 6.79 6.89 L 1.03 1.13 M1.90 N 0.05 — P — 0.8 Q — 1.7 R^(a) — 1.25 S 0.55 0.75 T 4.0 4.1 U 0.3 V1.4 1.5 W 2.7 Y 0.4 0.5 Z 3.7 3.8 AA 1.44 1.54 AB 4.35 4.55 AC1 0.5 AC20.5 AD 2.55 2.65 AF 9.24 9.38 AG 14.55 14.65 AI1 3.0 3.2 AI2 3.0 3.2 AJ7.9 8.1 AK1 1.43 1.53 AK2 1.43 1.53 AL 90 AM 2.24 AN 2.65 2.75 AO 0 0.2AP 2.1 2.3 AQ1 4.0 AQ2 4.0 AR 15.38 AS 0.5 BA 8.22 8.62 BB 0.2 0.4 BC1.1 1.3 BD (0.75) BE 3.5 3.7 BF (1.2) BG 0.8 1.0 P′ 0.75 — Q′ — 1.15 AD′— 2.3 CA 7.29 7.39 CB 1.65 1.75 CC 0.3 — CD 2.3 — CE (2.2) CF (2.95) CG2.6 2.8 CH 2.45 2.55 CI 1.95 2.05 F′ 6.25 6.35 CJ 1.75 1.85 CK 5.35 5.45CL 0.67 0.77 CM 1.95 2.05

It should be understood, that various portions of a connector system(e.g., CS connector system) may have adjustments made to accommodatevarious situations. One non-limiting example of these variations isshown in FIG. 29, which shows the push-pull tab 2910 being constructedwith varying lengths.

The embodiments shown in FIGS. 30A, 30B, and 30C illustrate an adaptercapable of receiving various modifications. For example, and referringto FIGS. 31A, 31B, and 31C, in some embodiments, a removable adaptormodification (e.g., the hook system of FIGS. 31B and 31C) may beinserted into the adaptor shown in FIG. 31A. The removable modificationdevice, such as that shown in FIGS. 31B and 31C, may comprise a hook tip3121 and a hook ramp 3122, or a plurality of either (e.g., as shown, themodification device comprises two hook tips).

It should be understood, that the removable modification device (i.e.,interchangeable anchor device) may vary in style and design. FIGS. 32A,32B and 32C provide an illustrative non-limiting example of a potentialdesign for the interchangeable anchor device. As discussed herein, insome embodiments, a removable adaptor modification (e.g., the hooksystem of FIGS. 32B and 32C) may be inserted into the adaptor shown inFIG. 32A. The removable modification device, such as that shown in FIGS.32B and 32C, may comprise a hook tip 3221 and a hook ramp 3222, or aplurality of either (e.g., as shown, the modification device comprisestwo hook tips).

In a further embodiment, and as shown in FIGS. 33A, 33B, and 33C, aremovable adaptor modification (e.g., the hook system of FIGS. 33B and33C) may be inserted into the adaptor shown in FIG. 33A. The removablemodification device, such as that shown in FIGS. 33B and 33C, maycomprise a hook tip 3321 and a hook ramp 3322, or a plurality of either(e.g., as shown, the modification device comprises two hook tips).

FIG. 34 illustrates a dual adapter for accepting two connectors (e.g., adual ferrule CS connector) similar to that shown in FIG. 30A, however,FIG. 34 includes two removable modification devices 3420. It should beunderstood, that the various dimensions provided herein are only forillustrative purposes, and that various other dimensions may be possiblein various implementations. FIGS. 35A and 35B show specificcross-sectional cuts of the adapter shown in FIG. 34, and thus, theidentified dimensions of FIGS. 34, 35A and 35B are also listed in Table1.

Referring now to FIGS. 36A and 36B, illustrative examples of a CSconnector being inserted into an adapter are shown. As discussed herein,the adapter shown in the illustrative embodiment comprises themodification device which engages with portions of the CS connector asdiscussed below in detail. FIG. 37 shows a CS connector being insertedinto an adapter. The modification device 3720 impacts and interacts withthe CS connector as the connector is inserted into the adapter housing.In some embodiments, as the CS connector is inserted, the front of theCS connector contacts hook ramp (FIG. 35C at 3522, FIGS. 32B and 32C at3222, and FIGS. 33B and 33C at 3322) which lifts the portion of themodification device that is interacting with the CS connector.

Still referring to FIG. 37, the movement of the modification device isshown in zoomed-in detail views 3731 and 3732. As shown, the hidden(e.g., dashed) line represents the profile hook ramp 3122, 3222, and3322, and the solid lines represent the profile of the hook tips 3121,3221, and 3321. The hooks 3121, 3221, and 3321 rise above the surface ofthe connector allowing for insertion of the connector into the adapter.Once the connector reaches the predetermined destination within theadapter (e.g., when a secure fiber connection is made), the hook tips3121, 3221, and 3321 interlock with a recess 3709 on the connector. Thisinterlocking action secures the connector within the adapter housing bytab during push-in action.

Referring now to FIG. 38, it is important to note that the front portion3814 of the push-pull tab 3810 moves independently of the front body3801, as discussed herein. Accordingly, the front portion 3814 of thepush-pull tab 3810, which is shown in detail, may align with therecesses 3816 of the front body 3801. In this configuration, the hooktips 3121, 3221, and 3321 are able to securely fasten the connector tothe adapter. However, depending on the embodiment, the push-pull tab3810 may be moved in the forward or rearward direction (see FIGS. 31,32, and 33) thus taking the recesses 3816 out of alignment with the pushpull tab recess. When the front portion 3814 of the push-pull tab 3810is moved out of alignment, it interacts with the hook ramp 3122, 3222,and 3322 via the ramp 3815. Accordingly, in some embodiments, moving thepush-pull tab 3810 independently of the front body 3801 may allow theramp area 3815 to apply a force to the hook ramp 3122, 3222, and 3322,thereby raising the hook tips 3121, 3221, and 3321. Once the hook tips3121, 3221, and 3321 are raised, the connector can be safely removedfrom the adapter and/or transceiver.

FIGS. 39-41 show further detail and cross-sectional illustrations of aconnector interacting with an adapter and/or transceiver. Additionally,FIGS. 42 and 43 show further detail and possible dimensions of anembodiment, see Table 2.

TABLE 2 Dimensions (mm) Reference Minimum Maximum BA′^(a) 8.7 8.9 DA8.28 8.48 DB 7.45 7.6 DC 5.2 5.4 DD 5.5 5.7 DE 5.5 5.7 AG′ 13.75 14.05AM′ 2.08 2.18 AN′ 2.08 2.18 AC′1^(b) — 0.5 AC′2^(b) — 0.5 Z′^(b) 3.323.72 AR′^(c) 6.88 7.28 DF^(c) — 0.5 G′ 3.8 DG 6.86 7.06 J′ 5.5 5.7 DI7.75 7.95 DJ (0.81) DK (3.57) DL (1.3) DM^(d) 1.45 — DN (6.24) AA′ 1.41.6 AB′ 9.33 9.53 DO (2.92) DP (3.22) DQ^(a) 5.14 5.26 T′ 3.3 3.4 H′ 3.03.2 AF′1 (2.80) AF′2 (2.80) AK′ 1.78 1.94 DR — 0.5 DS 1.60 1.72

The use of a CS connector allows for a compact fiber implementation, aswell as improved flexibility. For example, in some existing systems, asshown in FIG. 44A, a 200G transceiver module 4401 may receive an MPOconnector 4402. The MPO connecter may then be split out using anadditional tool, such as a fan out 4403 or a cassette 4406. Once thecable is split out, it can be connected to a 100G module device (e.g., aLC uniboot as shown) 4404. The 100G module device 4404 may then beinserted into a 100G transceiver 4405.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 44B, aplurality of CS connectors 4406 are inserted into a 200G transceivermodule 4401. Each CS connector 4406 may then independently connect tothe 100 as shown in FIG. 44A, a 200G transceiver module 4401 may receivean MPO connector 4402. The MPO connecter may then be split out using anadditional tool, such as a fan out 4403 or a cassette 4406. Once thecable is split out, it can be connected to a 100G module device (e.g., aLC uniboot as shown) 4404. The 100G module device 4404 may then beinserted into a 100G transceiver module 4405.

A specific example using multi-strand cables is shown in FIG. 14 forexplanatory purposes only, and it should be understood that near endlessalternatives and modifications are possible. As shown, a switch (e.g.,100G switch) 1430 is shown with a transceiver (e.g., 100G transceiver)1431. The transceiver 1431 has an adapter to receive two mini CS duplexconnectors 1432. From each of the two duplex connectors 1432, a fourfiber cable 1433 extends to connect to various other connectors andtransceivers. As shown, one four fiber cable 1433 is split in to twofiber cables 1434, which are then attached to a single CS simplexconnector 1435 and placed into a transceiver (e.g., 25G transceiver)1436. As further shown, one of the four fiber cables 1437 is connectedto a single mini CS duplex connector 1438, which is then inserted intoanother transceiver (e.g., 50G transceiver) 1439.

In the above detailed description, reference is made to the accompanyingdrawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbolstypically identify similar components, unless context dictatesotherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detaileddescription, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Otherembodiments may be used, and other changes may be made, withoutdeparting from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presentedherein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the presentdisclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in theFigures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designedin a wide variety of different configurations, all of which areexplicitly contemplated herein.

The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particularembodiments described in this application, which are intended asillustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations canbe made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparentto those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent methods andapparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to thoseenumerated herein, will be apparent to those skilled in the art from theforegoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intendedto fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosureis to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along withthe full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It isto be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particularmethods, reagents, compounds, compositions, or biological systems, whichcan, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminologyused herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodimentsonly, and is not intended to be limiting.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singularterms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from theplural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as isappropriate to the context and/or application. The varioussingular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sakeof clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, termsused herein, and especially in the appended claims (for example, bodiesof the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (forexample, the term “including” should be interpreted as “including butnot limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having atleast,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but isnot limited to,” et cetera). While various compositions, methods, anddevices are described in terms of “comprising” various components orsteps (interpreted as meaning “including, but not limited to”), thecompositions, methods, and devices can also “consist essentially of” or“consist of” the various components and steps, and such terminologyshould be interpreted as defining essentially closed-member groups. Itwill be further understood by those within the art that if a specificnumber of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intentwill be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of suchrecitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid tounderstanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of theintroductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claimrecitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed toimply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinitearticles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing suchintroduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one suchrecitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases“one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or“an” (for example, “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “atleast one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use ofdefinite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, evenif a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitlyrecited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitationshould be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (for example,the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, meansat least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, inthose instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B,and C, et cetera” is used, in general such a construction is intended inthe sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention(for example, “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” wouldinclude but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, Calone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A,B, and C together, et cetera). In those instances where a conventionanalogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, et cetera” is used, in generalsuch a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the artwould understand the convention (for example, “a system having at leastone of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that haveA alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and Ctogether, and/or A, B, and C together, et cetera). It will be furtherunderstood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive wordand/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in thedescription, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplatethe possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, orboth terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood toinclude the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are describedin terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize thatthe disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individualmember or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and allpurposes, such as in terms of providing a written description, allranges disclosed herein also encompass any and all possible subrangesand combinations of subranges thereof. Any listed range can be easilyrecognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range beingbroken down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths,tenths, et cetera As a non-limiting example, each range discussed hereincan be readily broken down into a lower third, middle third and upperthird, et cetera As will also be understood by one skilled in the artall language such as “up to,” “at least,” and the like include thenumber recited and refer to ranges which can be subsequently broken downinto subranges as discussed above. Finally, as will be understood by oneskilled in the art, a range includes each individual member. Thus, forexample, a group having 1-3 cells refers to groups having 1, 2, or 3cells. Similarly, a group having 1-5 cells refers to groups having 1, 2,3, 4, or 5 cells, and so forth.

Various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, oralternatives thereof, may be combined into many other different systemsor applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipatedalternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may besubsequently made by those skilled in the art, each of which is alsointended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

What is claimed is:
 1. A receiver device comprising: one or more portsfor receiving a connector having a top and a bottom; the one or moreports comprising at least one cutout on the top; the one or more portscomprising at least one guide rail on the bottom, and wherein the atleast one cutout is configured to receive an interchangeable anchordevice, and further wherein the interchangeable anchor device comprisesa uni-body structure with a top and a bottom, and further wherein thetop and the bottom are separated by a gap for at least a portion of theinterchangeable anchor device and further wherein the bottom of theinterchangeable anchor device comprises at least one hook tip and atleast one hook ramp.
 2. The receiver device of claim 1, wherein the topand the bottom of the anchor device are connected substantially at thecenter of the anchor device.
 3. The receiver device of claim 1, whereinthe top and the bottom of the anchor device are connected substantiallyat the end of the anchor device.